Juvenile Nasopharyngeal Angiofibroma

At Montefiore Einstein Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, you can access exceptional care for juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma (JNA). As a global leader in otorhinolaryngology and head and neck surgery, we are an academic-based, national and international referral site for the most complex and high-risk cases. For over a century, we have been at the forefront of innovation, research and clinical care for ear, nose and throat (ENT) and head and neck conditions.

Ranked in the top 1% of all hospitals in the nation for complex specialty care according to U.S. News & World Report, Montefiore Einstein continues to make advances in the diagnosis and treatment of ENT and head and neck conditions. Our multidisciplinary team of world-renowned specialists has pioneered many of the otorhinolaryngological techniques used today and is passionate about uncovering the latest diagnostic approaches and treatments that can improve outcomes.

At Montefiore Einstein Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, you can expect compassionate, personalized, research-driven treatment plans that meet the highest standards for quality and safety.

When you need juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma care, turn to our dedicated multidisciplinary team for a personalized treatment plan. 

Juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma is a benign (noncancerous) vascular tumor in the nasal cavity. Although benign, it can expand quickly and spread into a variety of compartments in the head, including the sinuses, eyes and brain. JNA commonly affects adolescent boys and tends to resolve once patients reach their early 20s. In some patients, the disease will continue into their 30s. JNA is extremely rare, with approximately 50 new cases per year in the U.S.

The exact cause of juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma is unknown.

In its early stages, patients with JNA may not have any symptoms. As the tumor expands, the following symptoms may develop:

• Difficulty breathing through the nose
• Double vision
• Headaches
• Nosebleeds

In addition to a complete medical history and physical examination, several diagnostic procedures may be used to diagnose JNA, including:

• CT scan: an imaging technique that uses a combination of X-rays and computer technology (CT) to capture detailed images of the body’s bone structures
• Endoscopic evaluation: Your physician uses endoscopy to identify the presence of the JNA and how severely it is obstructing the nasal airway.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): a diagnostic imaging exam that produces 2D and 3D images of the body’s soft tissue organs

Treatment of JNA requires surgery to remove as much of the tumor as possible. Initial treatment of JNA has two components:

• Angiographic embolization by interventional radiologists: This procedure is used immediately before surgery to close off the blood vessels that supply the tumor in order to limit blood loss during surgery.
• Minimally invasive surgery: often performed endoscopically through the nose to remove the tumor. If the tumor is localized, removal can be accomplished in one surgery. If the tumor has expanded significantly, multiple surgeries may be required. Surgery for JNA is highly specialized due to the location of the tumor.